With momentum under way for Stage 1, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail Committee (NRRTC) wants to see this continue for Stage 2 – Bentley to Eltham (32km).
Tommy Salmon Photographer
Act Of Parliament For Stage 1
Earlier this month, we shared that the act of parliament had passed the Lower House for Stage 1 which included closing the section of the rail line and opening it to other purposes between Casino and Bentley and between Crabbes Creek and Condong in the Tweed. Unfortunately, the vote has been delayed in the Upper House.
Stage 2 and Petition
In the meantime the NRRTC has been busy working on a petition to fund Stage 2.
In 2019, the Federal Government committed $7.5 million to partly construct (13.4km from Casino to Bentley) Stage 2. The NSW Government has yet to commit any funding to Stage 2 of the project.
NTTRC are calling on the NSW Government to develop a funding package for the completion of Stage 2.
Completing the 45km route from Casino to Eltham would provide return to the local area with the benefit cost ratio to be at least 1.66. It would see job creation, small business development, increased tourism, environmental sustainability and health benefits to all who use it.
“We call on the whole community to show their support for more rail trails in NSW,” said Kim Lavender, Bicycle NSW Communications Manager.
“Locals are reaping the health and tourism benefits of the Tumbarumba to Rosewood rail trail, and we’d love to see communities in Casino and Eltham do the same,” said Kim.
Please sign the petition and show your support here.
